This groundbreaking series displays amazing quick-fire humour but (crucially) combined with real acting talent. Miller went on to star in Johnny English (as Rowan Atkinson's partner) where he turned in a class performance, but this earlier work is every bit as elegant. Armstrong moved on to the lead role in a surprisingly funny UK TV series about a lovelorn vet. That was also a great show, but this sketch show which launched it all (a UK Channel 4 production) should really have run and run and it's a great shame that it didn't. The duo had already enjoyed success as an in-character slot on the BBC's Friday Night/Saturday Morning, alongside Ben Elton, Harry Enfield and Josie Lawrence, each special in their own way. What set them apart was their comic timing and acting ability. Miller's performance (in the Armstrong & Miller Show) as the school teacher is breathtaking and demonstrates his ability to turn on the head of a pin without breaking character. And the send-up (by both) of a Guardian-type indie music writer - well, you have to see it to believe it. Definitely worth a look if you can get your hands on a recording - and a great shame that the show was so short-lived.
Review of Armstrong and Miller
